Roncalli College

Roncalli College is a Catholic college of approximately 400 students. We have high expectations and high levels of achievement in all aspects of school life - academic, sporting, cultural and social. Approximately 80% of our students continue to tertiary education on leaving school.

We have approximately 20 places available to international students and we encourage each of these students to become integrated into all aspects of school life - including co-curricular activities.

Special Character

• Gospel values as seen in Jesus Christ
• Traditions of service, concern for the poor, underprivileged and disadvantaged
• Co-educational, which adds a richness and balance to learning

As a Catholic College we are proud of the culture that is evident at Roncalli. Roncalli is the family name of Pope John XXIII. He steered the church on a path of renewal.

The Setting

The College is located in Timaru, a town of 28,000 less than two hours drive from the international airport of Christchurch and 2 hours north of Dunedin.

Facilities

The College is set in 3.1 hectares of grounds. The most recent facilities are a gymnasium (completed in 1998) and a new technology complex completed in 2002. Within the immediate vicinity there is access to squash courts, a covered swimming pool and our near neighbours the Aoraki Polytechnic.

Academic Programmes

The College emphasizes a broad based programme in academic subjects. These include English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Economics, Music, Physical Education and Technology. Many students also study a range of other subjects such as Art, Hospitality and career-based options.

Extracurricular Programmes

The natural environment of the Aoraki-South Canterbury region offers the opportunity for a wide range of outdoor pursuits. Roncalli College makes full use of this potential and offers a diverse range of outdoor education opportunities. Outdoor activities include tramping, camping, climbing, abseiling, rafting, surfing, kayaking (sea and white water), yachting, skiing, snowboarding and various others. These activities can be undertaken by involvement in specific curriculum areas or through participation in various recreational activities. These may range from being part of a full year course to that of an after school option.

The College also has a strong tradition in team sports such as hockey, netball, basketball, rugby, soccer and cricket and also in sports such as tennis and table tennis.

There is also a strong Maori culture group, Ka Awatea, that is recognized in our community as a positive feature of our College.

Guidance, Counselling and Pastoral Care

The College prides itself on the personal yet professional bond between staff and pupils. A strong network of guidance, counselling and pastoral care is provided.

Key Features

• Catholic Integrated School
• Co-educational
• Year 9-13 (Form 3-7)
• A small school of 400 students
• Accredited to offer NZ Curriculum Framework courses
• Students have access to NZ Qualifications and International Qualifications

English Language Support

All international students receive tuition in English. This is generally within a small group situation and tuition is provided by our full-time ESOL tutor. Students have the opportunity to prepare for and sit IELTS/TOEFL examinations. Students who enter with a very low level of English may be required to undertake an intensive ESOL program of up to 10 weeks. An additional charge is made for this course.

Fees for 2004

Tuition: NZ$10,500
Homestay: NZ$175

Contact

Mr Gerry Fennessy
Director of International Students